Pre-planning funeral/cremation

By Jeff Monreal, Funeral Director

A priceless gift people can give their children and families is the peace of mind knowing they’ve pre-planned their last wishes.

As a fifth-generation funeral director who has handled funeral, cremation and burial services for the past 17 years, I can attest to the difference this makes for everyone involved.

When people die unexpectedly or without a plan in place, their family is left wondering what they would’ve wanted at a time when they are coping with overwhelming grief.

I take time with clients to discuss all the big and small considerations. Would they wish to be buried or cremated? Do they want a big service or small one? We go through selections of casket or urn, and even the music and readings they’d like at the service. Nothing is left to chance, and nothing is written in stone. This is a journey where people can make changes along the way.

Another aspect of pre-planning to consider is the wisdom of locking into today’s pricing. Who knows with inflation how much higher the prices will rise?

Over the years, people have become more open to talking about their final wishes, which I think is a healthy thing. Anyone who has had to go through planning a funeral for a family member who didn’t have a plan in place knows how trying it can be, and they usually turn around and plan their own after that experience.

My clients have come to appreciate that I’m the only point of contact they’ll ever deal with. I find it rewarding to help others through the journey. Give me a call to help get yours started.

Jeff Monreal Funeral Home is located in Painesville at 1000 Mentor Avenue. The charming red brick building’s spacious lot offers convenient parking. His services are also offered at locations in Willoughby (38001 Euclid Avenue) and Mentor (6330 Center Street). Call 440-527-6294 or visit JeffMonrealFuneralHome.com for more information.